Life and Project Crises Happen Every Day
A failed deployment. Pushed the wrong code to production. A new government regulation. Deadlines missed and stakeholders breathing down your neck. Or maybe… you forgot to pack your child’s lunch.
Every other day, there’s a project (or life) crisis to manage.
Practical Crisis Management Tips
Who better to learn from than the calmest project lead ever — Jesus.
Imagine organising an event for 5,000+ people and your caterer ghosted you last minute. And you’re in a remote retreat location far from Uber Eats. 😅
That was the scene in John 6:1–14 — the story of the 5 loaves and 2 fish. Huge demand, limited resources, high stakes… a full-blown project crisis. The real test of “can you deliver under pressure?”
Here’s what we can learn from Jesus’ response:
1️⃣ Stay calm.
Jesus maintained his calm despite the disciples panic. Staying calm helps you see clearly.
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Practical tip: Pause, take a breathe, or step away briefly to pray/center yourself.
2️⃣ Analyse the situation.
Gather your team, do a quick root-cause analysis, or set up a “war-room” if needed. Break down the problem to identify what it is, who it affects, and the impact.
- Practical tip: Get everyone aligned on the facts.
3️⃣ Organise and delegate.
Once you identify a workaround or solution, coordinate and assign clear tasks. Structure brings speed and reduces panic.
- Practical tip: Assign each person one clear task.
4️⃣ Make the most of what you have.
Don’t underestimate what you have. The solution your intern proffers may be the one that solves the issue.
Jesus worked with 5 loaves and 2 fish. Don’t wait for perfect resources — repurpose what’s available.
- Practical tip: Audit your resources, then repurpose creatively.
5️⃣ Bring what you have with faith.
Small things multiply when surrendered to God. So, say a prayer to God for help and trust Him to come through.
- Practical tip: Start small (maybe, a workaround first) and expect growth.
Quick Crisis Checklist
- Pause & clarify the problem
- Inventory your resources
- Huddle & assign owners
- Communicate clearly with stakeholders
- Execute focused sprints
- Give thanks and share the win
- Document lessons learned for next time
Crises are inevitable, but they don’t have to end in chaos. With calm, structure, resourcefulness, and faith, crises can become opportunities for miracles or promotions.
Next time you face a project or life crisis, remember the 5 loaves and 2 fishes; small in your hands, but mighty in God’s.
And if a stakeholder asks for a miracle, tell them you’ve got 5 loaves, 2 fishes — and faith. 😂
Which of these will you try first when a crisis shows up? Drop it in the comment section below
